In response to news that the Public Bridge Authority is embarking upon an $80,000,000 re-decking project that will see the addition of a fourth lane, bike path and a pedestrian overlook in the middle of the bridge, one Buffalonian has issued his plea for something more substantial. According to bridge enthusiast John Nowak, there is still no time like the present to build a dramatic new bridge – one that he would call Peace Horizons Bridge – as a way to emblazon the mouth of the Niagara River with a project befitting of the international crossing.
Nowak is so passionate about building an iconic “signature” bridge, that he went out and built one himself, a lot smaller of course. He began the undertaking in 2010, and by the time he completed the project, the bridge “prototype” was a whopping 36 feet in width.
“The Peace Horizons Bridge is a cable stay design with its towers 365 feet high center, bearing its 2,000 feet long six lane road deck, giving drivers an unobstructed view… and is bird friendly.” – John Nowak
Whether you’re onboard with Nowak and his dream or not, you have got to give the guy credit for not simply weaving his vision together with words. The man went out and built a small scale replica of the bridge that he has in mind. He also took environmental considerations to heart. He states that his bridge is 225 feet shorter than the one that bridge designer Christian Menn would have built, which would be “bird-friendly”.
Along with building a replica of his vision, Nowak has also created a petition where fans of the project can show their support (click here).